By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – Gov. Santiago B. Cane Jr. announced during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony at the Provincial Capitol that the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) will return to a five-day workweek starting today, as the province ramps up preparations for the Palarong Pambansa 2026.
The decision to revert to the traditional workweek schedule comes as the final stretch of preparations for the national sporting event intensifies. “This is crucial to ensure we are fully prepared for the Palaro, which will be a monumental event for our province,” said Gov. Cane, emphasizing the need to streamline operations and boost workforce efficiency.
In his address, the governor also reminded all employees to remain committed to austerity measures. He stressed the importance of responsible resource management while maintaining the delivery of quality public service.
Further reinforcing the province’s commitment to sustainability, Gov. Cane announced that the clean-up drive, which has been an ongoing initiative, will not only continue in preparation for the Palaro but will be extended throughout the year. “This is a long-term commitment to cleanliness, discipline, and sustainability,” the governor emphasized.
The announcement marks the end of the province’s temporary four-day workweek, which had been implemented as part of a national directive. On March 10, 2026, that the four-day workweek was rolled out across several local government units (LGUs) and government agencies in Agusan del Sur.
A subsequent post on March 31, 2026, confirmed that the PGAS had adopted the policy at the Capitol, while essential services continued on a regular schedule.
The temporary four-day workweek was a national initiative announced by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on March 9, 2026, in response to rising global oil prices driven by the ongoing Middle East crisis. In his message to the nation, President Marcos emphasized the need for the government to conserve energy and reduce fuel consumption. He stated, “Starting Monday, March 9, we will temporarily implement a four-day workweek in select executive offices.”
Following the president’s announcement, Malacañang released Memorandum Circular No. 114, which outlined the specifics of the policy. The directive applies to national government agencies, government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs), local government units, constitutional bodies, state universities and colleges, and other government instrumentalities.
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